Hidden Hollow Campground, O Possum Run Road, Mansfield, Ohio

Hidden Hollow ‘02

October 4 & 5, 2002

Hidden Hollow Campground, O’Possum Run Road, Mansfield, Ohio

In the autumn, as crisp air and clear skies draw our eyes skyward, the Richland Astronomical Society (RAS) conducts its biannual retreat/convention against the rustic backdrop of Ohio’s magnificent scenery. Drawing amateur astronomers from across the Midwest and Canada, the “Hidden Hollow” conventions offer an opportunity to stay in touch with the most recent developments in the rapidly changing world of astronomy. Every effort is made to bring together a first-class panel of speakers, which will both inform and challenge those present. Equally important is the opportunity to meet with like-minded amateur and professional astronomers who are eager to make new friends and engage in stimulating conversations. Concurrent with the conference, a swap meet and commercial displays present a wide array of new and used equipment, books, and magazines. Participants are also encouraged to enjoy fantastic deep sky views through the 31” f/7 telescope at the Warren Rupp Observatory. This telescope is located at the conference site, and is operated by the RAS.

Several of the large cabins at Hidden Hollow Camp will be designated as dorm type accommodations for single registrants. Other smaller cabins will available for families or groups attending together. The larger dorm type cabins have restroom facilities, while the smaller cabins do not. The cabins are rustic in nature, without heat so you will have to bring your own sleeping bags or bedding. Tent camping sites and space for self-contained (no hookups) RV’s is also available.

Sky High Lodge sits at the opposite end of the ridge from the Warren Rupp Observatory. Providing a magnificent view of the surrounding countryside, the lodge is the setting for our lectures. A large lower level deck provides ample space for telescope displays and flea market items. The well lit indoor display area for commercial dealers and exhibits is also on the lower level. The Mohican Building is our registration center. This is where everyone will pick up his or her registration package. If the weather is not favorable for stargazing, video and slide shows will be presented.

Our Speakers

Our speakers, this year are: Rick Fienberg, Editor in Chief of Sky & Telescope Magazine, Phil Harrington, noted astronomy columnist, lecturer and author, Brent Archinal of the U.S.G.S., and Dave Gill of the Wilderness Center. Additional speakers are possible.

Because of many requests we will be offering a meal package for Saturday Lunch and Supper. This consists of a box lunch and a supper buffet. Registration for the meal package should be postmarked by Sept 20, 2002. We hope that you will stay and enjoy the meal and scenery as a prelude to a night under the stars.

Motels: L & K Travelodge Motel (1-419-756-7600), Super 8 Motel (1-419-756-8875), Amerihost (1-800-434-5800), and the Baymont Inn (1-419-774-0005), located at the intersection of I-71 and State Route 13 about 10 minutes from Hidden Hollow ‘00. There are also a Ramada Limited (1-800-226-2323), a Comfort Inn (1-800-228-5150), a Star Inn (1-419-886-3800), and a Dollar Motel (1-419-886-2292), at the I-71 and SR 97 intersection about 10 minutes south of the I-71 and SR 13 intersection. There are also a variety of restaurants at both of these interchanges.

Registration times are 5:00pm - 11:00pm on the 4th and begin again at 9:00 am on the 5th.

For registration information send a legal size SASE to:

Hidden Hollow ‘02, c/o 811 Chestnut St., Ashland, Ohio 44805

Email: or

Or check the WRO/RAS website at: